Lee University mathematic students Robert Chaney and Chanda Hughes presented at the Joint Mathematics Meeting in Atlanta.
The students presented about the experiences they have gained from their internships. The presentation, “From the Classroom to the Corporate World: Sharing Internship Experiences,” took place during a session sponsored by BIG SIGMAA (Business, Industry, and Government Special Interest Group of the Mathematic Association of America) earlier this month.
Mr. Chaney, a senior, is a double major in chemistry and mathematics. When reflecting on his internship he said, “The internship for Olin Chlor-Alkili Products was very enlightening. I was introduced to a business atmosphere in which I could actually apply many of the concepts I had previously learned from both degrees.”
“The students’ presentation in the JMM this year has been different in nature,” said Dr. Caroline Maher-Boulis, an associate professor of mathematics who helps organize internships for students through the Internship Math Program (IMP.) “It’s the first time our math students have presented on internships with businesses. Not only was it a learning experience for our students, but it also benefited the mathematical community in the meeting. We are proud that Lee is taking a lead in this area.”
Ms. Hughes, a junior mathematics major, has interned with Olin twice.
BIG SIGMAA comprises members from the MAA (Mathematic Association of America) that strive to provide resources and a forum for mathematicians working in various fields. For more information about BIG SIGMAA, visit http://sigmaa.maa.org/big/BIG_SIGMAA_Home.html.
The Joint Mathematics Meeting (JMM) strives to offer a comprehensive and rich scientific program for all levels of mathematicians. The meeting included prize and award ceremonies, a graduate school fair, games and competitions, along with presentations and exhibits. For more information, visit http://jointmathematicsmeetings.org/jmm.
IMP strives to introduce math majors to real-life problem-solving scenarios, opportunities to develop workplace skills, awareness of non-academic career options, and experience with research. Through the internship program, the industry has access to bright and energetic students and an opportunity to identify and help train potential employees while giving students an opportunity to serve in their field.
For more information about IMP, contact Dr. Maher-Boulis at cmaherboulis@leeuniversity.edu.